Newsletter

Posted August 29, 2013 04:46 pm

Keep cost of cleaning down with these tips

Cleaning supplies is a necessity on everyone’s grocery list, but with new gadgets coming out nearly every season from multiple big-named companies, it can get expensive. There are several ways to combat the pricey products, though. You can conserve products, purchase generic brands and buy items in bulk. Many of my friends have found recipes online to make their own cleaning products, which often has the added benefit of being Green. Here are a few tips that will help to downsize your cleaning budget: Conserve:One way to conserve on items such as all-purpose cleaners and similar liquid products is to dilute them. A plastic spray bottle can be purchased just about anywhere. Add about 3/4 of the purchased cleaner to the empty spray bottle and fill the rest of the bottle with water. Diluting a product shouldn’t affect the quality of the cleaner as long as it’s measured properly and it will last longer.Other conservation methods include:Using kitchen towels rather than paper towels or sponges, which can get dirty fast. A kitchen towel can be washed after every use and reused.Store cleaning supplies properly. Many items, if not stored properly are hazardous. Read the label for instructions on how to store various cleaners and take into consideration temperatures and whether the location is child or pet accessible. Improperly stored items can become contaminated, wasted or worse, spilled.Replace disposable cleaning tools with reusable. Items such as mops, gloves, dusters, brushes and various other items are being marketed to be used once and then thrown away. Utilize washable mop heads, reusable rubber gloves and multi-purpose scrub brushes. Brands:One way to combat high-priced cleaners is to use household items instead of store-bought cleaners. Vinegar diluted with water makes for a great multi-purpose cleaner for counters and floors. White distilled vinegar is also effective for killing most mold, bacteria and germs, due to its level of acidity. Other household items that can be used to clean include baking soda, fresh lemon, toothpaste, salt, boiling water and a host of other natural items. Another option is to purchase the store or generic brand. Many times the off-brand contains the same ingredients, the same amount of cleaner, but at a lesser cost. Make sure to pay attention to ingredients and weight when comparing different brands. Bulk:Buying in bulk can help to save money in the long run, especially if an item is on sale or there’s a coupon available. Kroger sometimes offers 10 for $10 deals and Publix is good about accepting manufacturer’s and competitor’s coupons. Stores such as Costco, Sam’s Club, BrandsMart USA, Walmart, Kmart and other super stores carry items in bulk. Planning one bulk-shopping day a month or stocking up for six months to a year when a cleaning product is on sale can also save money in the long run. Get crafty:With the advent of social media, blogging and sites such as Pinterest, it’s never been easier to be crafty. The Internet is full of cleaning tips and recipes for homemade soaps, detergents and household cleaners. Making your own is not only thrifty, it’s often environmentally friendly, less hazardous and allergen-free. Making your own cleaning products also offers the opportunity to designate one day a month or two days a year, to produce. Why not have a cleaning-product party with several of your closest friends. Everyone can submit a recipe for either detergent or all-purpose cleaner and bring enough for everyone, to trade. • Follow breaking news reporter Allie Jackson at www.facebook.com/AllieJacksonABH or www.twitter.com/Allie_ABH.